The Mystery at the Bottom of the Great Blue Hole

The Mystery at the Bottom of the Great Blue Hole

Richard Branson and Fabien Cousteau—the grandson of famous French explorer Jaques Cousteau—led an expedition to the bottom of the Great Blue Hole in December of 2018. The world’s biggest ocean sinkhole is a popular attraction for divers, but at over 400 feet deep, the bottom has remained a mystery.

During their trip, the team conducted over 20 dives with the aim of creating a 3D sonar map. When they finally reached the bottom, it was completely dark, but the equipment on board allowed them to see their surroundings in great detail. They were able to view never-before-seen stalactites in addition to unidentifiable tracks—leading to speculation as to what could have caused them. With on-site mapping complete, the team is now working to finish the final map, which they will then share with the Government of Belize and the scientific community.

The complex system of limestone caves—now known as the Great Blue Hole—once stood on dry land. About 14,000 years ago, the melting ice caps caused the ocean to rise and flood the cave, creating a world-class diving destination.

Getting to the Great Blue Hole can be complicated as it’s near the centre of Lighthouse Reef, an atoll 100 kilometres off of the Belize shore. You either have to make the long trip from the mainland, spending half your day travelling or book a trip through a liveaboard, where you spend days cramped in a boat. However, with the opening of Belize Dive Haven, you now have the option of staying at a luxury resort and experiencing the Great Blue Hole. We’re the closest resort to the Blue Hole and reaching the famed destination only takes 30 minutes.

Explore the mystery of the Great Blue Hole while enjoying the amenities of a luxury resort.

We’re currently offering preview bookings to groups of 8 or more,
or you can register for one of our organized preview excursions.
Want to plan your excursion to Belize Dive Haven?Get in touch with us.

Belize Dive Haven is located on 47-acres of breathtakingly beautiful and private land within the Turneffe Atoll. We’re nestled between palm trees and the Caribbean Sea and provide the perfect spot to experience the majestic underwater beauty Belize Barrier Reef offers.

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